Feel bad but need advice- how to rehome dogs?

[Coconuts]

I feel awful saying this, but we really don't like our dogs. We have great dogs- obedient, laid back, pretty quiet- everything a dog is supposed to be. We just don't like having dogs. At all. We hate what they've done to our backyard. I was excited when the weather was in the 20s, because that meant the ground was frozen and they couldn't track mud in anymore. I hate that I'll never get all of the mud out of the house. I hate that they terrorize the cats- not intentionally, the cats just hate them too. I hate that we have to come home for lunch to let them out. I hate that we have to come straight home from work to let them out. I hate that we can't go anywhere for the weekend because of the dogs. I hate that we have a bed and dog crates in our bedroom instead of bedroom furniture. I hate stubbing my toes on bones.

And I know all of that hate will eventually turn into hating the dogs, which isn't fair to us or them. So how do we get rid of them? They're 10 month old black mostly-labs. Meaning big black teenager dogs, definitely over the puppy cuteness- so they would have no shot in a shelter (adult big dogs don't usually get adopted, and black dogs don't usually get adopted- if we wanted them killed we'd just take them to a vet). I know most rescues are so strapped for space that I don't want to add them to the problem- especially since they are bonded to one another and would have to go to the same new home.

We thought we were a forever home. I feel so bad that I don't like them (at least Tom doesn't either!), but we realized on vacation that we really missed the cats and really didn't want the dogs back.

Any ideas on how to go about this? The woman we got them from as puppies did say she would take them back, but I don't know how long the offer is there.

And don't worry- they completely and utterly reinforced our desire not to have children.

[nutmeg]

Do contact the lady you got them from.

Usually people who say that mean it. Our rescue is that way. We will take the animal back if the adoption doesn't work out.

You will be doing the dogs a favor to have them find a home where they are loved. Also it wouldn't hurt to contact a rescue. Someone may be looking for just what you have. Though I have to admit that we have trouble placing the larger dogs. Everybody seems to request small dogs.

Good luck!

[surfpirate]

9 month old black labs? Already housetrained? A rescue organization would take them in and find them a home in no time.

Try this link: http://www.purebreedlabrescueinc.com/contact.htm They are in the Michigan area.

Young dogs already housetrained are the first to be adopted by rescue organizations.

[nutmeg]

Oh and one more thing. Do NOT advertise them as FREE in the newspaper. Bad things often happen to the "free" pets in the paper. At least put a price on them that will ensure some laboratory or nut who needs fodder for their fighting dogs doesn't get them.

[Brown Eyed Girl]

I'm sorry, but why in the freakin hell did you get them in the first place then?

Yet another reason why people need to do research into any kind of pet they are thinking of getting. And it doesn't say much for the woman you got them from, since she apparently didn't stress what little puppies grow up into.

Invest some energy into finding a suitable rescue organization...it's the least you can do for them. If you think dogs don't know that they've been given away, you're wrong. Hopefully they can find the loving home they deserve.

[nutmeg]

I'm sorry, but why in the freakin hell did you get them in the first place then?

Yet another reason why people need to do research into any kind of pet they are thinking of getting. And it doesn't say much for the woman you got them from, since she apparently didn't stress what little puppies grow up into.

Invest some energy into finding a suitable rescue organization...it's the least you can do for them. If you think dogs don't know that they've been given away, you're wrong. Hopefully they can find the loving home they deserve.

BEG, this isn't all that uncommon. I work with a rescue group. A lot of people don't really know until they get a pet what all is involved. At least they aren't just dumping the dogs in the pound...or neglecting them...or dumping them in the country.

Coconuts, with patience you will find a spot for the pooches. Hang in there until they find their real "forever home"

[Brown Eyed Girl]

I'm sorry, but why in the freakin hell did you get them in the first place then?

Yet another reason why people need to do research into any kind of pet they are thinking of getting. And it doesn't say much for the woman you got them from, since she apparently didn't stress what little puppies grow up into.

Invest some energy into finding a suitable rescue organization...it's the least you can do for them. If you think dogs don't know that they've been given away, you're wrong. Hopefully they can find the loving home they deserve.

BEG, this isn't all that uncommon. I work with a rescue group. A lot of people don't really know until they get a pet what all is involved. At least they aren't just dumping the dogs in the pound...or neglecting them...or dumping them in the country.

Coconuts, with patience you will find a spot for the pooches. Hang in there until they find their real "forever home"

Apparently you're luckier than us, because our shelters and rescue organizations are full of animals that have had this done to them...and those are the lucky ones. And again I stress, why don't people do research before they get a pet? Contrary to what seems to be popular belief, animals aren't disposable.

It p*** me off, and I don't need to apologize for that.

[nutmeg]

I'm sorry, but why in the freakin hell did you get them in the first place then?

Yet another reason why people need to do research into any kind of pet they are thinking of getting. And it doesn't say much for the woman you got them from, since she apparently didn't stress what little puppies grow up into.

Invest some energy into finding a suitable rescue organization...it's the least you can do for them. If you think dogs don't know that they've been given away, you're wrong. Hopefully they can find the loving home they deserve.

BEG, this isn't all that uncommon. I work with a rescue group. A lot of people don't really know until they get a pet what all is involved. At least they aren't just dumping the dogs in the pound...or neglecting them...or dumping them in the country.

Coconuts, with patience you will find a spot for the pooches. Hang in there until they find their real "forever home"

Apparently you're luckier than us, because our shelters and rescue organizations are full of animals that have had this done to them...and those are the lucky ones. And again I stress, why don't people do research before they get a pet? Contrary to what seems to be popular belief, animals aren't disposable.

It p*** me off, and I don't need to apologize for that.

Believe me I know and believe that pets aren't disposable. But people do make mistakes and they appear to be looking for a responsible way out. Our rescue is pretty successful with the pets we take on...but we can't take them all and the pounds here are full of critters that don't stand a chance.

With encouragement we can try to help these folks make the best decision for these dogs so that they don't end up as statistics. I'm sure that when they got the dogs they thought that they would be compatible. But often people who own cats really don't realize how high maintenance dogs are. At this point it's too late to say they shouldn't have gotten them and it's time to figure out how best to move forward from here.

[Marnin Grita Guy]

I am sorry.

It is a good thing you do not want children.

So you want a animal that you teach to pee and poop in your home.

I don't care what litter stuff you use.

When I go into a home with litter boxes, thats what I smell.

Sorry, but it smells.

Not being mean but truthfull.

[ToplessRideFL]

I admire your honesty. Heed the advice of some wise BN'rs and call your local SPCA or rescue team.... they should be ez to find homes for.

I have a dog... pretty much a perfect dog who is nearing 14 years of age... I dont think I will get another... not that I dont adore him... but now that the kids are gone... I want more freedom.

You made a mistake in getting them.... its not the end of the world. Just continue your responsibility until they have a new safe home.

[nutmeg]

I am sorry.

It is a good thing you do not want children.

So you want a animal that you teach to pee and poop in your home.

I don't care what litter stuff you use.

When I go into a home with litter boxes, thats what I smell.

Sorry, but it smells.

Not being mean but truthfull.

Different people are compatible with different pets. That's why it is important to research and know yourself before getting one. I grew up with and loved 3 dogs. I got cats in my twenties and have had them since. I have nothing against dogs, but my lifestyle/personality fits better with cats.

And you will find that cat people don't notice litter box odors and dog people don't notice the "wet doggie smell" It's all in what we're used to....

But that is neither here nor there when it comes to finding these furbabies a home.

I still encourage coconuts to look into all possibilities and have patience and keep the dogs until they are able to find a better home for them.

[Marnin Grita Guy]

I am sorry.

It is a good thing you do not want children.

So you want a animal that you teach to pee and poop in your home.

I don't care what litter stuff you use.

When I go into a home with litter boxes, thats what I smell.

Sorry, but it smells.

Not being mean but truthfull.

Different people are compatible with different pets. That's why it is important to research and know yourself before getting one. I grew up with and loved 3 dogs. I got cats in my twenties and have had them since. I have nothing against dogs, but my lifestyle/personality fits better with cats.

And you will find that cat people don't notice litter box odors and dog people don't notice the "wet doggie smell" It's all in what we're used to....

But that is neither here nor there when it comes to finding these furbabies a home.

I still encourage coconuts to look into all possibilities and have patience and keep the dogs until they are able to find a better home for them.

Yes M'aam I agree!

[Coconuts]

Ok, I need to clarify- my first post was more venting than anything, but I'm too tired to fix it right now. I didn't really take the time to organize my thoughts, I just got on a roll.

It's really two issues- they don't get along with the cats, and I can't have our cats sulking on the bed or hiding in the armoire all the time. I don't think they would intentionally hurt them (and I don't trust them enough to give them the chance to find out), but I know they would love to chase them.

And we've both always had dogs. But Tom had never had a cat before Senna, and my dog came before my longer lived cats growing up. We didn't realize how bonded we are to the cats. The cats are our babies and the dogs are like our stepchildren- that's just not fair to them.

I'm not even sure I trust some random person from the paper with my dogs, much less for free!

[parrothead216]

I feel awful saying this, but we really don't like our dogs. We have great dogs- obedient, laid back, pretty quiet- everything a dog is supposed to be.

Then why do you want to get rid of them? Especially, since You had a dog and knew what it entailed.



We just don't like having dogs. At all. We hate what they've done to our backyard.


Awww, just messed up your perfect yard, did they!



I was excited when the weather was in the 20s, because that meant the ground was frozen and they couldn't track mud in anymore. I hate that I'll never get all of the mud out of the house.


I guess you never bring dirt into your house, do you?



I hate that they terrorize the cats- not intentionally, the cats just hate them too.



Excuse me, cats and dogs, does the term oil and vinegar come to mind!



I hate that we have to come home for lunch to let them out. I hate that we have to come straight home from work to let them out. I hate that we can't go anywhere for the weekend because of the dogs.



Gosh, life can sure be inconvenient!

Let's hope no one you love gets sick because you won't want to be bothered with that, too!

Geee, we have three dogs and we can go places.

Also,I think they have kennels in Michigan, don't they?



I hate that we have a bed and dog crates in our bedroom instead of bedroom furniture.


So put them in your family room or basement or spare bedroom. You put them there and now it is a complaint!



I hate stubbing my toes on bones.


I guess your cats pick up all there toys that they have , right?


And I know all of that hate will eventually turn into hating the dogs, which isn't fair to us or them.



Did you notice who came first, "US" not to the poor dogs that you chose to adopt!



So how do we get rid of them?



Well at least you did make it pretty like your term "rehome" like they were unwanted christmas presents that you "regift"!



They're 10 month old black mostly-labs. Meaning big black teenager dogs, definitely over the puppy cuteness- so they would have no shot in a shelter (adult big dogs don't usually get adopted, and black dogs don't usually get adopted- if we wanted them killed we'd just take them to a vet).




"if we wanted them killed we'd just take them to our vet"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Could you please post the name of the vet who would "kill' perfectly healthy 10 month old dogs! We think he could be brought up on charges for that!



I know most rescues are so strapped for space that I don't want to add them to the problem- especially since they are bonded to one another and would have to go to the same new home.



Finally, you said something that is true. Shelters are strapped, especially because people only want their "CUTE" puppies and not the responsibilities of an adult dog!



We thought we were a forever home. I feel so bad that I don't like them (at least Tom doesn't either!), but we realized on vacation that we really missed the cats and really didn't want the dogs back.



Well at least Tom doesn't want to be inconvenienced , TOO!! The dogs need to go to someone who loves them and NOT to someone like you and Tom that didn't know what you wanted, in the first place!!!



Maybe surrogate children?



Any ideas on how to go about this? The woman we got them from as puppies did say she would take them back, but I don't know how long the offer is there.

And don't worry- they completely and utterly reinforced our desire not to have children.



Well childs social services is VERY HAPPY to hear that!!!

I'm not sorry if this sounds harsh. Your post sounds so unbelievably selfish!

Both you and Tom had dogs, and you knew what that entailed!

It sounds to me that, you are people that are only worried about your own needs, and your "babies" fit better into your self-centered lives!

As you MAY BE ABLE to tell, Judy and I work with a number or animal rescue organizations, that clean up the messes of people like you and Tom! People who "hate" their animals and no longer want them!


Final, thought, do whatever you have to do to find them a great home like the dogs deserve. At least TRY to keep the promise that you gave them when you adopted them, that you now are breaking!

[Dally]

Ok, I need to clarify- my first post was more venting than anything, but I'm too tired to fix it right now. I didn't really take the time to organize my thoughts, I just got on a roll.

No you really don't need to clarify anything.....you made yourself perfectly clear in your original post.

I may not agree with your reasoning for wanting to get rid of the dogs.....but I do agree that you are should try and find them a loving and caring family to take them in and give them a wonderful home.

After all that is what they deserve.....they may walk on 4 legs and they may not be able to talk, but they are living creatures and deserve the same kind of respect and treatment that a human would receive.

When did you and Tom start feeling this way about them? If it was soon after you got them, why didn't you just call the lady back and take her up on her offer?

I'm not trying to chew you out or make you mad......but your reasons for "hating" the dogs struck a nerve in me.

[sunseeker]

Coconuts,

As I sit here and type, my 100 pound dog Maverick is laying next to me with his head on my lap....snoring...I can't imagine my life without him. I once had two dogs though....Mojo my other weim is now living on a farm with a great family. You see, after my divorce, I ended up taking both dogs. I thought I could handle both HIGHLY energetic dogs. My ex didn't want either...So there I was. I would come home each day to an absolute disaster...Mojo learned to open the fridge and would help himself to any and all contents inside. I installed kiddie locks..he chewed them off. My carpets were muddy, my blinds were torn off the windows, things were broken. I decided to try and find a home for both dogs together...because I didn't want to separate them. I met a great family, but they only wanted one dog, and decided it was Mojo. After a heartwrenching week, I decided to let them take Mojo. I still miss him. Is my life easier - yes. Would my life be easier if I didn't have Maverick now? I'm sure it would be....Would I have more money to do fun things? yep...but in the end I looked deep inside my heart, and I could not imagine coming home to an empty house. No doggie kisses, no "happy dances" , and no one to go to the park with me. Does he still make messes- sometimes. But he fills my life with so much fun and laughter, I would never imagine getting rid of him too. I still get pictures of mojo...and I still miss him. And sometimes I think if I had to do it all over again, I would keep him. But I can't change the past. I will say, I applaude you for being completely honest...and at this point you have to do whats best for the dogs. You may end up having to separate them to find good homes for each. Just please don't take them to the pound....or give them away to the first taker. Good luck.

[kitty]

your honesty, while shocking, should be commended.
I was just very relieved to read that you are sure you don't want children...please don't change your mind on that one!

[Conolulu]

Coconuts...

I too had a dog...In the middle of a bad time in my life......I had no choice but to find her a home...She now lives on a pig farm in another state with 40 acres to run around on....she is the happiest she has ever been!
I had nowhere to bring her to....and understand some of your concerns about finding them a good home, which is what I am trying to focus on....I'm not sure where you are...but my Aunt in NC is involved in Animal Rescue, and a friend here is deeply involved in it...She even has truckdrivers that take animals from state to state, to good homes..Sort of an underground railway for animals.....Please let me know if I can help in any way......I commend you for asking to find a good home for the dogs and not just taking them to the pound......You're going about it the right way, like Nutmeg said...

I have a cat now, that "Found me" ...a 20 month old cat that was going to be dumped in the woods, and I couldn't let that happen..(he was 5 and 1/2 months old then, neutered, and declawed)....I agree, they are less maintenance, and I can leave for up to 3 days without having to do anything....I can't imagine life without "Poof"...He's my best friend...

We're not, any of us, perfect people...We live, we make mistakes, and hopefully, we learn from them.......Asking for help is the right thing to do, and trying to find them a good home...either together, or seperate...Dogs are a lot more resilent than we give them credit for...

I just "inherited" a dog with this house I am in now...She was a rescue dog, and very loving...but not house broken and I am battling trying to teach an old dog new tricks...It's not easy, and I feel your frustration..Sometimes things happen that we just didn't plan on..Not sure what is going to happen with the dog I have...she was a "breeder" dog, and kept in a cage most of her 9 yrs before my father got her...and going to the bathroom where she lives is what is natural for her...My dad comes by about once a week, and loves to love on her, and it makes him happy...therefore it makes me happy....
Maybe my answer is building a dog house outdoors and letting her spend more time outside...who knows?

As for my cat....I scoop the litter box twice daily, and wash it totally once a week...If someone smells it and finds it offensive , they haven't told me yet...I have even asked friends who are not cat owners...either they love me too much to tell me the truth, or really can't smell it...

This may help, or at least they can point you in the right direction..

http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/rescue.htm#L

another link...The AKC's Breed Rescue Group:

Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retriever Club, Inc.
http://www.akc.org/breeds/rescue.cfm

Good Luck and again....if I can help, let me know....

[parrothead216]

Here are Lab Rescue groups and people by state! Michigan is included!



http://www.netpets.com/dogs/dogresc/bre ... b_ret.html

[Indiana Jolly Mon]

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO - Call the person you got them from, they will know a good home for them and they can be trusted.

That should be your first step, and should be the last. Not sure how many you have, but if you dont like dogs, did you think more than one would help?

And please have you and your husband spayed and neutered to make sure you never have children. The world thanks you.